Looking At Some Of The Tell Tale Signs Of A Cowboy Builder

You might be looking into home improvements. Many of them can be done by the average homeowner. There are some that require special skills or tools, also. Not everyone has the time to make home repairs. Many people turn to professional help. It is very important to find the right contractor for your work. Many people out there seek to take advantage of you. These con men are also known as cowboys. It is best to know the difference between the bad and the good. Here are a few of the tell tale signs of a cowboy builder.

A knock on the door

There may be a knock on your front door. It might be a man that fixes things. Perhaps he wants to repair your roof or driveway. Licensed contractors do not conduct business by going door to door. A lot of their business comes from referrals. If they solicit business, it may be through phone book or newspaper ads.

No office

A con man may have his office in his truck or van. Perhaps he has a cell phone number. You will not see an office number on his business card. He probably does not have a business card. He does not want anyone to find him. There are very likely, many people looking for him.

Very low quote

Does he quote you an extremely low price for the work? There is usually good reason for this. He does not plan on doing any work. An honest contractor cannot work for very low prices.

Payment ahead of time

He may ask for money upfront. This is always a bad thing. A reputable contractor will never ask you for money before the work is done. If he cannot afford the materials, he should not be in business. He may state that he has no inventory and needs the money for materials. This is not the case. He wants the money so he can start the job and then disappear.

Cash payment only

Does he insist on a cash payment for the work? Con men always work for cash. It cannot be traced. He does not own a bank account, to cash checks. You will not see the money or the con man again, if you give him cash. A reputable contractor will accept other forms of payment.

Summary

You may receive a knock on your door. A many may offer to fix your home. His price will be very low. He wants cash and needs the money in advance. His office is in his truck or van. These are some ways to discover the tell tale signs of a cowboy builder.

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